Duckett & Crawley Tear Into India Before England Retake Test Control

England took a strong initiative in the 4th Test at Old Trafford, where openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley took charge with a devastating 166-run opening partnership that put England in firm control, in response to India being bowled out by England for 358.

England’s Dominance at the Top

Duckett (94) and Crawley (84) displayed ruthless intent, racing along at more than five runs per over and narrowly missing hundreds in just over two hours at the crease. Their fifth century partnership in 53 Tests together gave England a commanding position at stumps: 225–2, still trailing by 133 runs.

India’s Response & Pant’s Grit

India’s innings had benefitted from a gutsy 54 from Rishabh Pant, who batted through severe foot pain to frustrate England’s bowlers. However, his effort was undone by an uninspired bowling display from India, enabling England’s openers to feast on loose deliveries.

Ben Stokes spearheaded India’s collapse, claiming 5–72—his first five-wicket haul in Tests since 2017—while Jofra Archer supported with 3–73, including the crucial wicket of Ravindra Jadeja.

Context & Reaction

Former England captain highlighted India’s disciplinary lapses, accusing them of not capitalising on Pant’s valiant innings, suggesting India effectively "handed" those runs back to England.

Zak Crawley hailed Stokes’s return to form following his five-for, calling the performance and praising his regained pace and movement akin to his peak 2020 self. Crawley reflected on his partnership:

“He [Duckett] is a phenomenal thinker … I try to stay with him... he is the leader of that partnership.”

Match Status & Looking Ahead

England now sit 2–1 up in this five-match series. With Test five at The Oval still to come, a win in Manchester would seal the series for the home side. England's blend of sharp bowling and explosive opening partnerships leaves India with significant work to do if they are to salvage the match.